The demand for flexible fulfilment is growing. Consumers expect inventory availability information and flexible fulfilment options that support their busy lifestyles, whether it’s shopping online with a view into local store inventory, selecting to pick up their online purchases in-store or opting for same-day delivery to meet an immediate need.
Critical Issues: Manufacturing/Supply Chain
Critical issues are thought provoking articles relating to strategy, legislation, technology, best practice and some of the most challenging business topics in the world of manufacturing and supply chain information technology. The articles in this section have been contributed by leading vendors, industry leaders, research analysts, trade associations and consultancies and cover a variety of topics relating to the manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transportation and distribution marketplace across Europe. They look at market trends, improvements in technology and some thought provoking comment on all aspects of optimising and improving efficiencies throughout the supply chain from raw material to finished product.
Other important topics covered in this section concern Health and Safety in Logistics with articles from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).Taxation, government policy, climate change, recruitment and training schemes are all covered, as well as educational opportunities at various UK logistics educational facilities such at Cranfield University.
UK manufacturing revival as circular economy and servitisation transform business prospects, according to Sage research
Feb 25, 2020
Sage, the cloud business management solutions, has launched a report into the UK manufacturing sector. The results reveal how advanced the nation’s manufacturing sector is, compared to global counterparts, in adopting new processes and thinking to drive growth.
Flash PMI shows fastest growth rate in 10 months despite supply chains hit hard
Feb 25, 2020
The UK Flash PMI has revealed manufacturing output has grown at the fastest rate in ten months, hitting 52.8 up from January’s 50.1, despite emerging signs of supply chain disruption from the deadly coronavirus outbreak.
Yantra reveals top 10 tips for fulfilment
Feb 20, 2020
Up and coming third party logistics (3PL) provider, Yantra Fulfilment, has published its top 10 tips on what to look out for when selecting a fulfilment partner.
Some signs it may be time to consider replacing your ERP solution
Feb 19, 2020
Many organisations are busy doing what they do – servicing their market by providing products and or services in their specialist areas of knowledge or expertise.
Why payroll doesn’t have to be a performance
Feb 18, 2020
Time and attendance data input used to be tiresome first act for the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) in preparation for every payroll run. The leisure giant, which operates 30 UK theatre, music and cinema venues, has a ‘cast’ of thousands, and it would take many hours to amass the entries from its old paper-based system.
How might retailers entice consumers back to stores in 2020?
Feb 17, 2020
As growing numbers of retailers and brands look to entice customers back into store with an array of immersive experiences, Craig Summers, UK Managing Director, Manhattan Associates asks how retailers can reinforce innovative omnichannel experiences with the quality of in-store associate interaction.
TIMOCOM transport barometer: Germany weakens, Italy is the exception
Feb 17, 2020
Italian logistics companies enjoyed significant growth last year: “In Italy, we recorded an increase in freight of 16 percent as compared with 2018,” says TIMOCOM Business Analyst Tilman Fecke.
Business leaders unprepared for switch to smart supply chains despite cost reduction opportunity
Feb 15, 2020
Businesses who resist digitalising their supply chain are at risk of failing to meet customer demands and missing out on significant cost reductions, according to new research from PA Consulting, the global innovation and transformation consultancy.
Predictive data set to increase business profitability by over 20%
Feb 14, 2020
More than one in five managers in the manufacturing sector believe that predictive data would increase the overall profitability of the business during 2020, according to a recent survey by Anvizent, a data management software solutions provider.
Manufacturing Critical Issues
The manufacturing industry is facing a number of critical issues, including:
- Supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geo-political tensions/war has caused widespread disruption to global supply chains, and this is having a significant impact on manufacturing. Manufacturers are struggling to get the raw materials and components they need to produce their products, and this is leading to shortages and delays.
- Labour shortage. The manufacturing industry is facing a labor shortage, as there are not enough skilled workers available to fill open positions. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the decline of manufacturing in some countries, and the lack of educational opportunities in STEM fields.
- Rising costs. The cost of manufacturing is rising, due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials, energy, and transportation. This is putting pressure on manufacturers' margins and making it difficult for them to compete.
- Technology adoption. The manufacturing industry is facing the challenge of adopting new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence. These technologies can help manufacturers to improve efficiency and productivity, but they can also be expensive and disruptive to implement.
- Environmental regulations. Manufacturers are facing increasing environmental regulations, which are forcing them to change their production processes. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these regulations in order to remain competitive.
Supply Chain Critical Issues
The global supply chain has been facing a number of critical issues in recent years, including
- Labour shortages: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to labor shortages in many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. This has made it difficult to find and retain workers, which has led to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
- Equipment shortages: The global supply chain is also facing shortages of equipment, such as containers, trucks, and ships. This is due to a number of factors, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increased demand for goods.
- Port congestion: Port congestion has been a major issue in recent years, as ships have been waiting for days or even weeks to unload their cargo. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand, labor shortages, and weather events.
- Demand volatility: Demand for goods has been volatile in recent years, as consumers have shifted their spending habits due to the pandemic. This has made it difficult for businesses to forecast demand and manage their supply chains accordingly.
- Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can also disrupt the supply chain. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy inventory.
